Our final day in Uganda…

We began our last full day in Uganda with another outstanding breakfast buffet. Most of us ate more than we should have (typical American over abundance). We took the ferry back across the Victoria Nile and drove to the top of Murchinson Falls, about one hour away. What a majestic place! I have never seen a waterfall with so much power and beauty as this (see picture). Sorry, Colorado!

After taking many photos we had a short church service in a small woody area. Andi led the group in several praise songs which was followed by a few scripture verses from Brenda Heard. Brenda also conducted communion with elements that had been blessed at East Heights UMC before the trip. Each person in turn served the person next to them. We concluded with a moving prayer by Andrew, our host. It was the perfect way and place to conclude our mission.

We then began the torturous 5 hour bus ride back to Kampala. The roads were either under construction (there is no way to describe it) or full of huge potholes. It was very rough and slow going. In addition, a handful of people were not feeling well either (sore backs or upset tummies). So, it was a long 5 hours, but we made it back safe and sound to the “luxury” Kampala Regency Hotel. Of course, there was no power and some rooms had no water. All pretty standard fare.

Tomorrow morning we leave the hotel at 6am to catch our 9am flight to London where we will stay overnight and return on Tuesday (scheduled for 6:35pm on American flight 4428 from Chicago). We are anxious to get home to our friends and loved ones and to reacquaint ourselves with some of the comforts we are accustomed to.

In summary, our mission has been an outstanding success in all respects, all due to God’s good graces. We completed two Watoto homes, met new friends there (workers, house moms, children, and staff), were reunited with friends from two years ago, developed a bond of fellowship between the team members, are returning healthy and with many fond memories, and saw the majesty, beauty, and diversity of God’s creation. As always, the children touched us deeply and reminded us of why God called us to this place: to bring back the hope and justice that had been stripped from their lives. Their smiles and the gleam in their eyes tell me all I need to know.

Written by: Dave Glover

(P.S. Happy Father's Day to all of you Dad's out there)